A blow torch works like that on Pine. Try it on a scrap piece of Maple. We used to do that on plywood all the time; really makes a sharp contrast.
My Dad mad a Maple mannlicher stock for his Remington 721 30-06 when I was little.(about 1963-64)
He didn't like the light blond color and took an old fashioned gas blow torch to it.
Looks awsome and it's still killing critters!
